Les Bleus to play the Blues

History will be made when France take on the Blues in a midweek match during the international side's June tour of New Zealand.

History will be made when France take on the Blues at North Harbour Stadium in a midweek match during the side's tour of New Zealand.

It will be the first time an international touring side has played against a Super Rugby franchise.

The Super Rugby competition will be on a three-week hiatus to allow for the three-Test series, so this first-class match is a bonus one-off encounter for the Blues.

"It's wonderful to see the return of a mid-week match from an international touring side and all of us at the Blues are delighted to be hosting this special game against France at North Harbour Stadium," said Blues CEO Andy Dalton.

"It's a great fit - having the Blues take on Les Bleus during their trip to New Zealand."

Blues coach Sir John Kirwan said this opportunity for players to face an international side was another first for many of them in what had been a big learning year for his young side.

"This year has been huge for many of our young guys," he said.

"They've had a baptism of fire of what Super Rugby is all about and now they get the chance to take on the French during the three week break. What a fantastic experience for all of us, including our fans."